On 3 May 2025, registered voters will be electing a new electorate representative to speak on their behalf in the House of Representatives. Within this article, we will be introducing Mackellar and Warringah voters to their respective candidates.
Where do I vote?
The Australian Electoral Commission (AEC) has a handy search function to find your nearest polling booth which you can view here. Click ‘On election day’ and enter your postcode.
Early voting on the Northern Beaches
Looking to pre-poll on the Northern Beaches/ vote ahead of the election? The same search function can find early voting centres. Click here and nominate ‘Before election day’ and enter your postcode.
To apply for a postal vote, or information on voting while overseas, go here.
Voters who are blind or have low vision can cast a vote using the AEC’s dedicated telephone voting service.
The registration process for telephone voting will be open from today, Tuesday 22 April 2025. For more information, go here.
Most importantly, to find a polling booth with a democracy sausage sizzle and cake bake sale, check out Democracy Sausage.
How do I vote?
Voters are required to number the box beside every name on the green ballot-paper for the House of Representatives in order of preference (from 1 for their first preference, 2 for their second, until all boxes are filled). Below is an explainer for voting for the House of Representative.
Voters will also be required to vote for the Senate (you can find out more about this here).
WARRINGAH ELECTORATE
Candidates have been listed in the order they will appear on the ballot paper following the ballot draw.
1. Zali Steggall MP – Independent Member for Warringah
Why should we vote for you?
As a local, Olympic medallist and former barrister, I’ve worked passionately since 2019 to represent the views and values of Warringah, increase transparency and accountability, and have a positive impact by delivering smart solutions to key challenges faced by our community — from cost of living and housing pressures to climate risks and small business support.
I’m committed to hearing from and serving our community on issues from NDIS, Centrelink to immigration and aged care. From helping secure more than $300 million in local grants, responding to over 41,000 inquiries, stopping oil and gas exploration off our coast and improving legislation including on scams, job security and affordable education, I’m committed to achieving results for our community.
I’m fighting for housing opportunities and transport solutions that meet our needs, support for small businesses and households feeling the pressure of increasing costs and strong policies to transition to a low cost, low emissions, innovation driven economy.
Website: Zalisteggall.com.au
Instagram : @zalisteggall
Facebook: @zalisteggallmp
Bluesky: @zalisteggall.bsky.social
Tiktok: @zalisteggallmp
2. Celine Varghese-Fell – Australian Labor Party (NSW Branch)
Why should we vote for you?
I’ve lived on Northern Beaches for over 20 years with my husband David and I’m a qualified primary school teacher and childcare educator, working in the education and care sector for over 30 years, here and overseas. For over 20 years, I have been the centre director of an OOSH service in Manly and I’m a board member of the NSW peak body for OOSH.
Education and learning are some of my top priorities in this election. The values of hard work and duty run deep in my community involvement, and I am dedicated to building a better future for Warringah.
I’ve always been involved in grassroots politics and I was inspired to run for this seat as I want to see a better, fairer society and to ensure that Labor has a presence in our electorate.
This election is very important for our Labor government to win. The incumbent Labor government is a good government with progressive and proactive policies moving our nation to a better future.
My top three focuses are: reducing costs in the family budget; ensuring bulk billing is back and keeping the Urgent Medicare Clinics funded well; and, ongoing investment in our public schools.
Website: https://www.alp.org.au/our-people/our-people/celine-varghese-fell/
Facebook: @LaborWarringah
3. Anthony Rose – Trumpet of Patriots
Why should we vote for you?
I decided to nominate as candidate for Warringah with the Trumpet of Patriots party because I love my Country and I am willing to do all I can to help because that’s what I think it means to be a “Patriot”. Although I do not have political experience, I certainly represent the average Australian.
I have been a business owner since 2008 and I drive a taxi just to be able to stay afloat and pay the rent on my home as I struggle with the cost of living week to week, month to month, year in and year out under this current Government. I certainly cannot afford a deposit on a home and with the banks constringent criteria that needs to be met to obtain a home loan. Being a single man over 50, working 100 hours a week to stay in business and pay the rent, I feel enough is enough and I will ask the people of my electorate to vote for me, to vote for change, to vote and make Australia great again because I know what it’s like to bear the cost of living.
I feel it’s time for a change and I feel that I can make a difference contributing my time and effort for the people of Warringah.
“Vote for change, vote one and make Australia great again.”
Website: https://trumpetofpatriots.org/candidates/anthony-rose/
4. David Spratt – Independent
Why should we vote for you?
As the cost-of-living crisis is resulting in small and medium businesses and families ‘withering on the vine’, I would advocate for an immediate re-configuration of our national energy market (dispatch targets) such that all existing power stations operate 24/7 as in the past, when out low energy costs were affordable, reliable and the driver of our enviable national security and living standards.
Further, I would advocate for the lifting/removal of the current nuclear energy ban to allow international energy markets to determine options and costs for an Australian domestic nuclear energy industry. All options to be assessed and presented in open public forums/debates for the public’s acceptance or not.
Further policies (detailed on my website) for which I would advocate are: a Warringah mass transit system (metro) from North Sydney into the dormitory suburbs (not beaches) of Warringah; First Home Affordability – deductibility provisions; Indigenous youth education – boarding schools near remote communities; and immigration – to be in balance with the provision of infrastructure and housing.
Website: https://davidspratt.com/
5. Sean McLeod – Libertarian Party
Why should we vote for you?
I’m running as a Libertarian because I believe in you, your freedom, your choices, your potential. Vote for me, and I’ll work tirelessly to shrink government, cut taxes, and eliminate burdensome regulations that stifle our economy.
I’m committed to protecting your privacy, defending free speech, and ensuring personal responsibility guides our communities. My non-interventionist approach prioritises resources for our nation, not foreign conflicts. I trust you to make decisions about your life, not bureaucrats.
As your representative, I’ll listen and deliver practical solutions that empower individuals, not special interests. This election, choose me to restore liberty, spark prosperity, and build a future where everyone thrives.
Together, we’ll make government serve us, not control us.
Facebook: @Sean Mcleod – Libertarian for Warringah
X: @SRMcleod1
6. Gavin Wright – Pauline Hanson’s One Nation
Why should we vote for you?
I am standing for One Nation and, more importantly, YOU. The job description is the House of Representatives, and representation is my one and only top priority.
I want to bring back common sense, and to stop the propaganda being fed to us. We are spruiked to there is this crisis and that crisis; the government is a solution, looking for a problem or looking at creating a new one to solve. Fear mongering and propaganda are their weapons of choice. Warringah, are we not sick of it?
Governments have been busy creating division and tension. Our Constitution Act preamble states “Unite in one indissoluble federal commonwealth”. Let’s get united, as we are so lucky to live, work and play in one the best places in Australia.
Most importantly, remember you need to make your electorate marginal. Please vote for me and One Nation, as you can look forward to true representation as I will be very dedicated to representing you.
LinkedIn: Gavin Wright
7. Jaimee Rogers – Liberal Party of Australia, NSW Division
Why should we vote for you?
I’m a mum of two, raising our boys locally with my husband David. I know how hard it is for local families facing cost-of-living pressures right now.
Warringah residents keep telling me how the price of everything has increased on Anthony Albanese’s watch. The Liberal team has a plan to deliver low inflation, affordable housing and cheaper energy, fuel and medicines. We need a strong economy to beat inflation and restore living standards – this can only be delivered by a Dutton Liberal Government.
As a sportswoman and someone who has enjoyed a successful career in the media, I want to use my skillset to help my community of Warringah. If elected, I’ll work hard to raise issues facing our community in parliament. I want to get the Beaches Link Tunnel back on the agenda, to help ease congestion on Military Road and the Spit Bridge. We can only do this with a Liberal MP in a Liberal Government.
Voting Teal would deliver a minority Labor government, propped up by the Greens. It’s a nightmare scenario that would lead to continued uncontrolled migration and a further decline in living standards.
Website: nswliberal.org.au/jaimee-rogers
Instagram: @jaimeerogers4warringah
Facebook: @JaimeeRogers4Warringah
8. Bonnie Harvey – The Greens NSW
Why should we vote for you?
A vote for the Greens is a vote for energetic leadership in areas that matter; climate justice, housing affordability and making billionaires pay their fair share. The major parties treat these as separate crises, with only piecemeal solutions. We are experiencing a systematic collapse, which looks like: climate breakdown, extreme wealth inequality, global unrest and politicisation of human rights.
That is why I am running for this election. To offer Warringah a candidate who is committed to proactively treating the disease, rather than toying with isolated symptoms. I am an artist, student, small business owner and the youngest woman to ever be elected to the Northern Beaches Council.
I see it as a politician’s role to speak radical truth, unite community and re-invigorate hope. Warringah is ready for climate-forward representation that recognises that people over profit is not only possible but necessary.
Website: https://manlygreens.org.au/ & https://greens.org.au/nsw/person/bonnie-harvey
Instagram: @bon4manly
Facebook: Bon4Manly
Polling booths as at 16 April 2025. Click the image to search for a polling booth near you. Image: AECMACKELLAR ELECTORATE
1. Lisa Cotton – Independent
Why should we vote for you?
I grew up in the vibrant suburb of Manly, and now reside in Church Point with my husband and 12 year old daughter. I’m the founder of a domestic violence and family crisis support service based in the heart of Mackellar. I’ve always aspired to make a meaningful impact in the community whether in my work as a previous parliament staffer, community consultant, chaplaincy work or charity.
With strong values of justice, kindness and respect, I strive to make Australia the best in the world for family, community and the economy and ensure that Australia is known as the safest and fairest place to live, work and visit. My passion is to see my local area of Mackellar grow stronger than ever before.
As your representative, I’ll champion real solutions that reflect the needs and aspirations of every member of our electorate as I’ve been doing at the local domestic violence and family crisis support service supporting the needs of the family and community.
Website: https://lisacotton.org/
Facebook: Lisa Cotton – Candidate for Mackellar
2. Brad Hayman – Pauline Hanson’s One Nation
Why should we vote for you?
Like many Australians, I’ve watched as the cost of living rises, housing becomes unaffordable, and small businesses struggle. Families are told what to think, while decisions are being made behind closed doors, leaving everyday Australians out of the conversations that shape their future.
As a small business owner, I understand the challenges people face just to stay afloat. Australians are losing trust in a government that seems disconnected from the people it represents.
I’m standing for policies that restore affordable housing, protect local jobs, and keep essential services in Australian hands. This includes lowering energy costs, removing political agendas from schools, ensuring foreign companies pay their fair share of tax, and maintaining immigration at a level that is sustainable and in Australia’s best interests.
This election, your vote can make an impact. It’s time for leadership that listens, acts with integrity, and ensures Australians are heard, bringing meaningful change and restoring confidence in our future.
Instagram: @brhayman
TikTok: @bradhayman1nation
3. Ethan Hrnjak – The Greens NSW
Why should we vote for you?
The Greens have a plan to tax the billionaires and make corporations pay their fair share. By doing so, we can fund policies that make a material difference in people’s lives, including dental and mental health in Medicare; strong supermarket price-gouging laws; 1 per cent caps on mortgages; fully free education; and clean, cheap renewable energy for all.
As the youngest Councillor on Northern Beaches Council, I know that some consider my age a negative, but I consider it a super power. I speak with a first-hand understanding of the inequality that is facing young people, and I haven’t been around long enough to become the pawn of vested interests. As a young person, I hope to bring a fresh point of view and perspective to the decisions that affect not only young people and minority groups, but the wider community as well. This is what I’ve done on Council where I’ve stood with the community against inappropriate development, rate increases and tree canopy loss.
This election change is possible. You just have to vote for it.
Website: https://greens.org.au/nsw/person/ethan-hrnjak
Instagram: @ethanhrnjak
4. Justin Addison – Libertarian Party *
Why should we vote for you?
Justin Addison is a Libertarian Voice for Mackellar. Dedicated to preserving Australia’s freedoms and securing a brighter future for the Northern Beaches community. Justin divides his time between his beloved Northern Beaches home and the family farm in Hunter Valley where he was raised. This balanced lifestyle keeps him connected to both urban and rural Australian values, providing a comprehensive understanding of diverse community needs across New South Wales.
With his background in taxation and economics, Justin brings crucial financial expertise to address Australia’s growing debt and economic challenges that threaten the prosperity of Mackellar residents. Justin has observed a concerning trend of diminishing personal liberties and increasing government control in recent years. These developments have motivated him to take action to preserve the Australian way of life for future generations.
As someone who never imagined becoming a political candidate, Justin offers an authentic voice untainted by career political aspirations, focused solely on serving his community and country.
Website: https://www.lpnsw.org.au/federal_candidates
5. Amber Robertson – Trumpet of Patriots *
Why should we vote for you?
The Trumpet of Patriots is focused on democracy, individual freedoms, free speech, reducing government intrusion in our lives, breaking the duopoly, real choice and real liberty.
If you are unhappy with how your life has become more expensive to manage, disturbed by the direction of our nation and troubled by the erosion of our Australian values and identity, then at the election on 3 May you must vote differently. If you don’t, you’ll be locking in our nation’s current course for years to come and Australia will face a bleak future.
Every vote for Labor, the Liberals, Greens or Teals is another nail in Australia’s coffin. Vote 1 Trumpet of Patriots and set a new course for Australia based on our common sense policies that put Australia first.We need common sense, practical solutions that focus on what really matters to real people. Our policies are driven by need and necessity, not ideology.
Website: https://trumpetofpatriots.org/candidates/amber-robertson/
6. James Brown – Liberal Party of Australia, NSW Division
Why should we vote for you?
In the past three years, little has been delivered for our community. Another three years of Anthony Albanese as Prime Minister – but this time propped up by the Greens – would cost us even more.
I have a strong and unwavering commitment to public service. I was proud to serve for a decade in the Australian Army and co-founded the charity Invictus Australia. As the President of RSL NSW, I delivered major and long-lasting reforms to deliver better mental health services for our brave veterans and their families, including the Royal Commission into Veteran and Defence Suicide.
I’ve stood up for our hardworking and industrious small businesses, arguing against the Northern Beaches Council’s excessive and tone-deaf rate rises.
I’ve already secured a $250 million commitment from my Liberal team to finish upgrading Mona Vale Road to give our motorists safer and smoother journeys.
Together, let’s get Australia back on track.
Instagram: @jamesbrown4mackellar
Facebook: James Brown for Mackellar
7. Mandeep Singh Sunny – Independent
Why should we vote for you?
Mandeep Singh Sunny is a Northern Beaches councillor. He grew up in the Northern Beaches and now lives there with his wife and young child. The Northern Beaches is his lifelong home, and he’s dedicated to serving the community he’s always been a part of community. He is running as an independent candidate, with no political affiliation.
His core policy platforms are local community empowerment and restoring trust and integrity in Federal politics. He believes the people of Mackellar deserve a strong, independent voice who will listen, represent their values, and advocate for practical solutions — not party agendas. After years of disconnect between politicians and everyday Australians, it’s time to return to people-first politics.
His three main policy focus areas are cost of living and small business, health and wellbeing and smart urban planning and transport. Your voice, our future, northern beaches deserve better.
Instagram: @singh4pittwater
8. Dr Sophie Scamps – Independent Member for Mackellar
Why should we vote for you?
It’s been an incredible privilege to represent our community in federal parliament. It’s the community I love, where I’ve lived for more than two decades, raised my family, and cared for patients as your local GP. Now, I get to take your voice to Canberra.
I’m so proud of what we’ve achieved together, including:
- $250 million to finish Mona Vale Road.
- A new, free Urgent Care Clinic in Dee Why.
- A new Youth Mental Health Hub in Brookvale.
As your community independent, my focus is and always will be Mackellar. I understand our challenges and share our values.
I’ve voted 100 per cent of the time for our community, not for a party agenda. My Liberal opponent can’t offer that. Like any party politician, he’s bound to vote with his party – not this community.
If re-elected, I will continue to fight for lower taxes, a cleaner climate and a healthier Mackellar.
Website: www.sophiescamps.com.au
Instagram: @drsophie4mackellar
Facebook: @DrSophie4Mackellar
9. Jeffrey Quinn – Australian Labor Party (NSW Branch)
Why should we vote for you?
Mackellar is being squeezed on all sides: healthcare, cost of living, and community infrastructure.
After years of the Liberals’ avoidance, the Albanese government is taking serious action to address the needs of our community properly.
I’m proud Labor is increasing access to bulk-billed GPs, including the roll out a Medicare Urgent Care Clinic in Dee Why along with the $8.5 billion investment to strengthen Medicare.
We also need to ease the pressure of living costs further so we do not return to the high inflation track that the previous government left us. Only Labor will deliver a tax cut for every taxpayer.
I will fight for more zero emissions buses, more bendy buses, more capacity on the B Line, and continued works to upgrade Mona Vale Road and Wakehurst Parkway that are urgently needed.
Labor is the only party able to plan, fund and deliver what our community needs.
Instagram: @jeffquinn4mackellar
Facebook: @Jeffrey Quinn – Labor for Mackellar
Polling booths as at 16 April 2025. Click the image to search for a polling booth near you. Image: AEC https://www.aec.gov.au/election/voting.htm#start* Some candidates didn’t get back to Manly Observer with their bios despite providing ample time before publication. We have used the information available on their websites. Should we receive their information, we will update the article.
